Okay guys I need your.... guidance on my next 4WD vehicle.
Several months ago I sold off my 14 JKU that was mostly prepped for overland and bought an 02 TJ with a crapy lift as I found myself doing more crawling than overland. Since then I’ve taken my TJ on 2 trails and put a little over 800 miles on it (I’ve owned it for 7 months).
A bunch of the guys I used to crawl with have sold off their trucks or had kids or other things preventing them from heading out anymore, and I have convinced a few friends and co-workers into the overland lifestyle. This is prompting me back into overland.
My dilemma is (are) this:
1) I want / need a truck. I have several ongoing home renovation projects as well as working on restoring 2 motorcycles and an old Fiat, so a bed can come in handy. That being said based on part 2 of my dilemma a truck can be purchased through other means.
2) I’m in the process of opening another business which means I am attempting to keep costs to a reasonable amount. (The business needs a truck as a means of operation so this can solve the truck problem in part 1).
I would gladly pick up a used JKU again but my problem with overlanding a JKU remains; cargo space is limited compared to similar size vehicles, and its grossly underpowered.
If it weren’t for me hoarding funds for capital, I would spring for a used G class or H1 wagon, but these are not options at this point.
I have an opportunity to buy an 06 F250 diesel already on a decent 6" lift and 35" tires, but it’s also crew cab and 8' bed so not good for even semi tight trails.
I’m also considering the following vehicles:
Land Rover Discovery
Land Rover LR3 / LR4
Toyota Tacoma
Toyota 4Runner (2014+)
Toyota HJ60 / HJ61
Toyota Hilux Surf Diesel (pre 89)
4wd conversion van (quigly)
Ford high boy
I’m open to suggestions. I want something reasonably reliable that could be theoretically daily driven.
Go!